1 g
Cultivation: easy
Seed saving: beginner
Jagged Catalogna Chicory from Galatina - Puntarelle (Cichorium intybus)
Jagged Catalonia Chicory Puntarelle from Galatina (Cichorium intybus): the chicory Catalonia, called in other areas of Italy "Chicory asparagus" includes several local varieties, some whose shoots , similar to white asparagus become a dish to be consumed raw, the Puntarelle. These shoots look like a leafy head and display a beautiful intense green as well as an elongated shape, white stalks, and serrated leaves. In has stems on the head, similar to white asparagus, these are the buds of the chicory that is about to sprout, that is, to produce flowers and seeds. These buds are the famous Puntarelle that hold a slightly bitter taste, are tender and crunchy, and can be consumed both, raw and cooked.
They have a slightly bitter taste, they are tender and crispy and in the kitchen they are consumed both raw and cooked. Puntarelle are now popular in markets, supermarkets and restaurants throughout Italy in two main versions, those from Gaeta and those from Galatina; the former are thinner and more delicate, whereas the latter are more fleshy and intense, both exceptional. Popular in cuisine not only for their particular taste, but also for their nutritional qualities. Appreciated in the kitchen not only for their particular flavor, but also for their nutritional qualities.
Puntarelle are often found ready to be consumed in stores, but here we want to share how to prepare them directly from the garden.
From the harvested head, separate the outer leaves from the shoots, the leaves removed can be used in other preparations such as the one indicated in the Jagged Catalonia Chicory.
The sprouts should be washed thoroughly in running water to remove any possible impurities, ribbed vegetables such as Catalonia tend to keep soil and insects inside so this is a very important step.
Remove the green leaves from the sprouts and, cut the base where it is hardest. Almost done From the stalks obtained is where the real Puntarelle are taken. Each sprout should be cut lengthwise several times, until thin strips are obtained. To get that typical curly shape they should be put in water and ice (lots of ice) and a little lemon . They must soak in iced water for at least an hour. The result will be the some delicious, crunchy veggies. Important: if cut too thick they will not curl, be careful to make very thin strips and immerse them in very cold water.
How to cook them
But also not necessary. Raw puntarelle, seasoned with oil, anchovy fillets and a little wine vinegar are already perfect. Nothing could be simpler for a fresh recipe that does not degrade thermolabile vitamins, and is rich in fatty acids. Thy can also be cooked, steamed, grilled, or baked.
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